Being more active was at least in part what prompted 23-year-old Jamie Auspelmyer to adopt Tetley, a 5-month-old cocker spaniel. They walk around her Saratoga Springs neighborhood for 20 to 30 minutes a day.

That’s all that’s needed to exceed ACSM/American Heart Association guidelines, which call for 30 minutes of moderately intense cardio exercise five times a week.

“Having a pet definitely encourages you to get out,” Auspelmyer said. “I don’t want her to be cooped up all day, so it’s nice to come home and work out with her. We’ll go for a jog around the cul de sac. I’ve made it part of my workout.”